As part of a company’s information technology (IT) team, application systems analysts help businesses achieve their objectives by evaluating, designing and developing computer application systems. The online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Information Science (CIS) program from Florida Institute of Technology provides the foundation for a career in this in-demand and high-paying field.
Job Outlook for Application Systems Analysts
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of computer systems analysts — the occupational category that would include application systems analysts — will see very strong growth in coming years, a roughly 11% increase between 2023 and 2033. The market will create new jobs as businesses integrate increasingly sophisticated technology into their operations and as companies experience a growing need for information security.
The best job opportunities generally go to application systems analysts with a bachelor’s degree as well as in-depth knowledge of systems development and integration for new technologies. In particular, CIS professionals with an advanced understanding of modern artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies and their applications are in extremely high demand. Professionals without a strong grasp of emerging AI technologies — or a willingness to increase their education and modernize their skills — will struggle to compete in the growing CIS job market.
Job Description: Roles and Responsibilities
Most application systems analysts focus on a specific type of information system, such as business, accounting and financial, or scientific and engineering. The type and size of these application systems will vary according to the industry and organization. Typically, application analysts will consult with management to determine goals and objectives and then design applications to meet them. They usually develop application specifications, identify the required inputs and format the output to meet users’ needs.
Application systems analysts may use a combination of data modeling, information engineering, mathematical model building, sampling and accounting principles to ensure efficient and comprehensive designs. They may have to prepare cost-benefit and return-on-investment analyses to determine the feasibility of implementing proposed technology solutions. Other important aspects of an application systems analyst career include:
- overseeing the implementation of required hardware and software components for approved applications
- coordinating tests of the application system to ensure proper performance
- creating diagrams and flow charts for computer programmers to follow
Application systems analysts also investigate errors, diagnose problems and recommend solutions. Some may provide training for other personnel and create networks of application users within or across organizations.
The majority of application systems analysts work in an office setting or computer lab. Some may telecommute full- or part-time, working from a home office or other remote location. A 40-hour work week is typical.
Salary Potential for an Application Systems Analyst Career
BLS data from May 2023 revealed that computer systems analysts enjoy a median annual salary of $103,800. Recent CIS bachelor’s degree program graduates typically start out on the moderate level of the scale and move up in salary with experience. Advancing one’s education even further through graduate-level business and IT management studies can help increase earnings as well. BLS reports that the top 10% of professionals in the field earn more than $165,700 annually.
Education and Training
Many employers prefer to hire application systems analysts with at least a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, according to BLS. Some positions may require an advanced degree in information technology. Previous IT experience is also an asset and may be obtained through internships or work-study programs while pursuing a degree.
An application systems analyst career can begin with earning a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems such as Florida Tech’s online B.S. in CIS. Coursework usually covers subjects like statistics, IT and information systems fundamentals, Internet applications, continuous quality management, information security, survey of software systems and systems analysis and design Employers can be confident that graduates of a respected and fully accredited CIS program like Florida Tech’s are able to:
- understand the principles of application systems development and use them to analyze, test, implement, maintain and document IT projects
- identify the features, advantages and disadvantages of various software applications
- implement best practices in application systems development and network security
- evaluate and test software applications, compile data and produce relevant reports
- leverage advanced technical skills and knowledge to excel in an application systems analyst career
Many employers offer opportunities for continuing education. It’s possible to gain an entry-level position and use tuition assistance to further your education.
Pursuing an Application Systems Analyst Career
Most employers seek to hire application systems analysts with a broad knowledge of business and technology, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to multi-task. Whether seeking to specialize in application systems analysis or other niches such as enterprise resource planning or data analytics, aspiring IT professionals must have proficiency across a variety of software applications and computer systems. They must also possess the ability to work well both independently and in a team environment. By honing these skills and earning a bachelor’s degree in CIS, future IT pros can gain the edge they need to succeed in an application systems analyst career.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online B.S. in CIS program.
